Strategic Operations Planner - Townsville

You’ll connect Queensland. We’ll connect you to an amazing career.

For over 150 years, Queensland Rail has connected people, places and communities across the state. We're proud of our history and excited about the future. Join our team and help make a difference for Queensland today and tomorrow.

Learn more about Queensland Rail's purpose, people and progress - watch our short video here.

Your opportunity

As a Strategic Operations Planner you will play an integral role in planning and coordinating train and possession requests for track and station maintenance, repairs and upgrades. You will work closely with a variety of internal and external stakeholders to ensure there is capacity for any planned, unplanned or emergency works. 

You will join a supportive and engaged team which consists of four Strategic Operations Planner, two Supply Chain Network Planners, and one Supply Chain Interface Planner.  

This is a permanent full-time opportunity based in Townsville. 

Benefits That Count

•    Annual base salary of $117,700 + 12.75% super
•    This is your opportunity to help shape the future of Supply Chain Operations across North Queensland
•    Challenging and rewarding opportunity where you get recognised for your efforts
•    Work in an engaged and supportive team environment 
•    Flexible working arrangements including 50% WFH
•    QRI Lifestyle offers members access to over 2,000 exclusive discounts and services

To view additional exclusive Queensland Rail benefits please visit Employee Benefits.

Purpose that Counts. As a Supply Chain Operational Planner, some of your duties will include: 

•    Coordinating, developing and planning track possessions and train alterations – including preparing and issuing train notices for infrastructure works. 
•    Attending weekly customer meetings to discuss, negotiate and coordinate ongoing operational requirements.  
•    Developing and implementing commercial strategies to improve performance through effective resource use, demand forecasting, improved service delivery and cost reduction. 
•    Monitoring access agreements and operational performance, coordinating actions to achieve key business outcomes. 
•    Developing and implementing performance initiatives and building commercial and operational capability through effective stakeholder engagement 
•    Maintaining a current knowledge of regional operations, systems and business processes.
•    Collaborating with the Regional Assets management team to refine operational and capital plan works.
•    Developing and maintaining strong relationships with customers and stakeholders to support business planning and successful outcomes.  
•    Supporting major incident management activities, including investigations, and reviews.

For full position responsibilities please read this Position Description.

We’re looking to connect with a candidate who ideally has:

•    A high attention to detail with the ability to work independently and contribute to a team environment. 
•    The proven ability to analyse commercial, operational and resource data to identify and implement business improvements. 
•    Previous experience in train, rail or operational planning is highly desirable. 
•    Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 
•    Experience in Vizi-Rail or similar planning systems is advantageous.
•    A customer focused approach to ensure a positive and solutions-based experience for our stakeholders.
•    Excellent interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills.

Please apply to Strategic Operations Planner - Townsville (12101) via our website by clicking onto the "Apply" button by 11:59pm (GMT+10:00 Brisbane) Wednesday 30th of September 2026. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR CURRENT QUEENSLAND RAIL EMPLOYEES:

You must apply for vacancies via the internal People Connect solution – Click here for more information

External applicants applying for roles within Queensland Rail will be subject to Alcohol and Other Drugs pre-employment testing. The recruitment and selection process for this position might require shortlisted applicants to undertake psychometric assessment, pre-employment health assessment and background checks that might also include criminal history and credit checks.  

Supporting a Diverse Workforce

Queensland Rail is committed to a diverse workforce that is reflective of the customers and communities we serve.
We are inclusive, collaborative, respectful, and value our differences.  We are 1TEAM, where everyone belongs.
If you do require an adjustment during the recruitment process, please contact Tanya Anderson via the email below.

To learn more about this Queensland Rail career opportunity please contact Tanya Anderson with your specific enquiry via email to tanya.anderson@qr.com.au. Please do not email your application. We can only accept applications received via our website.